Hospital build phase nears

CONSTRUCTION of Griffith's private hospital is expected to open for tender within weeks, renewing confidence of an on-time delivery.

The addition of a sterilisation unit late last year delayed the development by forcing plans back before the state planning authority but members of the project control group said the hospital was back on track.

Project control group member Roy Spagnolo was pleased to see the planning phase coming to a close.

"The community has been very patient but it's all coming together and moving ahead now," Mr Spagnolo said.

"Once the schematic designs are done the construction will be put straight out to tender and we can start fielding the applicants.

"The construction remains on track for the end of 2015 and of course whatever we can do to attract local jobs will always be a priority."

Mayor John Dal Broi expected to have the final schematic designs within weeks and said the procurement process would begin immediately after.

"Even though we won't have the final tick of approval from the state government, we think approval is a mere formality and considering the hospital has been held up for so long, we intend to expedite the project as best we can," Cr Dal Broi said.

"The lease is with both ours and St Vincent's legal people but I think signing the lease is now a matter of formality as both groups are committed to signing it."

Cr Dal Broi echoed Mr Spagnolo's eagerness to hire as many local contractors as possible.

"I have a strong view that I want to see as many locals involved in construction as possible," Cr Dal Broi said.

"Not too many locals have experience building hospitals but there are things that they are experienced in like site preparation and electricals, and even if we have to get sub-contractors together as a group, I will explore avenues for locals to do it."